ASTM C1710-24

This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
Designation: C1710 − 22 C1710 − 24
Standard Guide for
Installation of Flexible Closed Cell Preformed Insulation in
Tube and Sheet Form
This standard is issued under the fixed designation C1710; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope
1.1 This guide covers recommended installation techniques for flexible closed cell pre-formed insulation in tube or sheet form.
This guide is applicable to materials manufactured in accordance with Specification C534 (Elastomeric based insulation) or
Specification C1427 (polyolefin based insulation). The materials covered in this guide encompass a service temperature of –297
to 300°F (–183 to 150°C) as indicated in the material specifications referenced above. Many of the recommendations made are
specific to below ambient applications only.
1.2 The purpose of this guide is to optimize the thermal performance and longevity of installed closed cell flexible insulation
systems. By following this guide, the owner, and designer can expect to achieve the energy savings expected and prevention of
condensation under the specified design conditions. This document is limited to installation procedures and does not encompass
system design.
1.3 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical
conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.
1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility
of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of
regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization
established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued
by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
C168 Terminology Relating to Thermal Insulation
C534 Specification for Preformed Flexible Elastomeric Cellular Thermal Insulation in Sheet and Tubular Form
C585 Practice for Inner and Outer Diameters of Thermal Insulation for Nominal Sizes of Pipe and Tubing
C1427 Specification for Extruded Preformed Flexible Cellular Polyolefin Thermal Insulation in Sheet and Tubular Form
This guide is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee C16 on Thermal Insulation and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee C16.40 on Insulation Systems.
Current edition approved March 1, 2022March 1, 2024. Published April 2022April 2024. Originally approved in 2009. Last previous edition approved in 20212022 as
C1710 – 21a.C1710 – 22. DOI: 10.1520/C1710-22.10.1520/C1710-24.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
C1710 − 24
2.2 Other Standards:
National Commerical, Industrial Insulation Standards (MICA Manual)
ASHRAE Handbook (Fundamentals – Chapter 23)
ASHRAE Handbook (Refrigeration – Chapter 10)
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions—Terminology C168 shall be considered as applying to the terms in this specification.
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
3.2.1 seams—Longitudinal or horizontal cross-sections where insulation meets and must be adhered to itself or other system
components.
3.2.2 butt joints—Cross-sections where two pieces of tubular or sheet insulation must be adhered to itself or other system
components.
3.2.3 vapor (water) stops—Locations / methods to prevent water or water vapor from traveling from one pipe insulation section
to an adjacent insulation and prevent water traveling down the annular space between the pipe insulation and the tubular pipe.
3.2.4 sleeving/multi layering—Applying another layer of insulation over the first layer. This process is used when the insulation
thickness required is greater than that which is commercially available. This technique is also employed when proper installation
practice requires multiple layers and or staggered joint application, even if a single layer thickness is available.
4. Summary of Guide
4.1 Proper insulation thickness shall be installed as specified and not compromised. The integrity of the insulation system shall
be maintained throughout the application. Never pull or stretch insulation, always push or over-size insulation.
4.2 All seams, butt joints, cutouts and termination points shall be sealed with a manufacturer’s approved adhesive to prevent
air/moisture intrusion. For below ambient applications, install vapor stops at all insulation terminations or interruptions, such as
at supports, valves and flanges This can be accomplished by several methods; by adhering the insulation directly to the pipe using
a 2 in. (50 mm) strip of contact adhesive or sealant to maintain closure, insulation tape can also be used for this purpose by
wrapping it around the pipe. A vapor barrier mastic or tape can also be used for this purpose. On straight runs, install vapor stops
every 18 ft (5.4 m) to minimize moisture problems if they occur.
4.3 Specific product Manufacturer’s recommended installation practices shall be used in all cases.
4.4 Product should be applied to clean, dry surfaces. If the system is operating, additional steps may be needed to insure a proper
installation.
4.5 A coating, jacket, cladding or appropriate protection shall be used where mechanical abuse or damage is expected. Outdoor
applications may require special consideration – refer to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
4.6 For satisfactory performance, properly installed protective vapor retarders/barriers and vapor stops must be used on high
relative humidity and below ambient temperature applications to reduce movement of moisture through or around the insulation
to the colder interior surface.
5. Significance and Use
5.1 This guide applies to flexible closed cell insulation tubing and sheet materials manufactured according to Specifications C534
and C1427. This standard is intended to provide a basic guide for installing these types of materials.
Available from MICA (Midwest Insulation Contractors Association) 16712 Elm Circle, Omaha, NE 68130. http://www.micainsulation.org.
Available from American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers, Inc. (ASHRAE), 1791 Tullie Circle, NE, Atlanta, GA 30329,
http://www.ashrae.org.
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5.2 Confirm application use temperature is consistent with specified use temperature for material as defined in ASTM
Specifications unless otherwise agreed upon with the manufacturer. There are different grades for each of the insulation types
referred to in this guide, material and grade installed should be that specified.
5.3 This guide is not intended to cover all aspects associated with installation for all applications, consult the National,
Commercial Industrial Insulation Standards (MICA Manual) or the specific product manufacturer for recommendations, or both.
See ASHRAE Handbook (Fundamentals – Chapter 23) and ASHRAE Handbook (Refrigeration – Chapter 10).
6. Workmanship, Finish and Appearance
6.1 The insulation shall have no visible defects that will adversely affect its performance or appearance. Materials shall be kept
clean and dry until used. Use good quality tools at all times. Ensure cleanliness of insulation products, pipe work, vessels, fittings
and tools. Avoid dust, dirt, oil or water on surfaces and equipment. It is recommended to apply insulation to a system which is not
in operation. If insulation must be applied to a system that is operating, special precautions must be taken to prevent condensation
from being trapped in the insulation envelope. Never stretch insulation to fit. Specified dimensions for the inner diameter (ID) and
wall thickness shall be adhered to.
7. Dimensional Tolerances
7.1 Dimensions for the ID, wall and length shall conform to tolerances published by the manufacturer and or applicable ASTM
standards, for example Specifications C534 and C1427 and Practice C585 can be used to determine the outer diameter of the
insulation for sizing jacketing and fitting dimensions.
8. General Installation Recommendations
8.1 All seams, butt joints, cut outs and termination points should be sealed with a manufacturer’s approved system. External taping
of seams is not recommended as an exclusive method of sealing joints or seams for below ambient systems. Approved adhesives
can be: contact adhesives, spray adhesives or pressure sensitive adhesives. Water based adhesives are not recommended because
of their slow drying time which causes them to pull apart. Adhesives should be applied according to manufacturer’s
recommendations. A thinner layer of adhesive is best, with 100 % coverage on both surfaces. Always keep adhesives stirred
thoroughly. Allow solvents to dissipate before combining two surfaces. This will be determined by time, temperature and adhesive
type. Ensure all seams are aligned, tight, and are completely sealed.
8.2 The specified insulation thickness should be maintained throughout the installation. When using unslit tubular insulation on
pipe work being installed, the insulation should be slid/pushed on the pipe, never pulled as this will stretch and thin the insulation.
The insulation is not to be stretched to fit. All insulation should be installed under slight compression to ensure a snug fit.
Accommodations need to be made to prevent the insulation from being compressed by weight; that is, pipe hangers. For
applications where the pipe work is already installed, the insulation must be slit and adhesive applied or pre-slit/pre-glued
insulation used.
8.3 Install insulation on systems that are dry, at room temperature and already pressure tested.
8.4 Use miter boxes or templates for making accurate cuts. See Fig. 1. Keep to correct dimensions. Do not cut the insulation short
and stretch it to fit the space.
8.5 Slide insulation on straight piping runs whenever possible to reduce seams. If insulation must be slit to apply to piping, slit
in a straight line. On large ID insulation where the material may be oval shaped, slit along the flat side (top or bottom) not along
the edge for a better fitting seam. Refer to 8.2.
9. Hazards
9.1 Use good quality tools and keep working area and materials clean. Keep cutting tools sharp. Recommend non-serrated edged
steel knife which can be sharpened.
9.2 Use appropriate protective equipment, that is. Safety glasses and safe practices when installing the material.
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FIG. 1 USE Miter Box For Making Cuts
9.3 Provide suitable ventilation when working with solvent based adhesives.
10. Recommendations for Specific Installation Situations
10.1 Straight Pipe Section – unjoined—Slide insulation along the pipe work for straight runs. Seal all butt joints, cut outs and
termination points. See Fig. 2.
10.1.1 Slit tube in a straight line (Fig. 3). Apply a thin brush coat of contact adhesive to each seam. Slip the insulation over the
pipe. Allow adhesive to properly set and press seams together at each end – working toward the center. Seal all butt joints, cut outs
and termination points with adhesive.
10.1.2 Use pre-slit/pre-glued insulation. (Insulation pre-slit with factory applied pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA)). See Fig. 4 and
Fig. 4A. Be sure application temperature and manufacturer’s installation temperature recommendations are adhered to.
10.2 Fittings—There are many types of fittings; pipe fittings, screwed fittings etc. See Fig. 5.
FIG. 2 Appl
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